The red-hot Rockingham Flames will be looking to move further up the table when they aim for a seventh successive victory in their game against East Perth tonight.

The Eagles and Flames open round eight of the Women’s State Basketball League at Morley tonight, with the home side rated a slim chance of causing an upset against the league’s hottest team. 

The two sides have enjoyed contrasting fortunes in recent weeks. Last year’s runners-up Rockingham have stormed into title contention with six straight wins, while East Perth have slumped to last place on the 12-team ladder with four consecutive defeats.

Reigning champions South West are aiming to get their season record back on the positive side of the ledger when they host Perth tonight, while Mandurah face a battle to defend their home court when they entertain second-placed Willetton.

Mid-table Perry Lakes and second-from-bottom Stirling also go head-to-head tonight in what shapes as a crucial encounter for both teams.

The Hawks are clinging to their place in the top eight, while Stirling are desperate for a win to get back in touch with the play-off picture.

On Saturday, Perth meet Mandurah and Perry Lakes host East Perth in battles between teams looking to negotiate double-headers.

As always, a pair of wins could propel a side up the ladder, while successive defeats could leave them lying in the wake of close rivals.

South West complete their double-header with a tricky trip to fourth-placed Kalamunda, who lost last week but boast a solid 4-3 record after the opening seven rounds.

Article by Shayne Hope
Photo by Darren Speedie